Phlox divaricata (woodland phlox)

Woodland phlox is an excellent addition of color to any woodland or shaded garden. Rosy blue pastel blooms appear in April and May. Plant these phlox in part to full shade in areas with medium soil moisture. They tolerate deer and drought relatively well. A light mulch in the Summer will help retain soil moisture and keep these roots cool.

Woodland phlox is native to forests and fields in eastern North America. Butterflies, moths, skippers, and long-tongued bees have tongues that are long enough to reach the  nectar in the flower. Short-tongued bees and flower flies may gather or feed on pollen. Woodland phlox depends on cross-pollination to produce seed, and butterflies are its most effective pollinators. Roots are consumed by rabbits and voles. 

Photo by Kathy Thornton